Hotels in Wrightsville Beach

Seaside Serenity: Discover the Allure of Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is a coastal paradise renowned for its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant beach culture. Just a short drive from Wilmington, this idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Stroll along the picturesque shoreline, explore the serene islands, or indulge in water sports like surfing and paddleboarding. The charming Lumina Pavilion adds a touch of nostalgia, while nearby Pilot Mountain promises stunning views for hikers. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets, Wrightsville Beach is an inviting escape for couples, families, and nature lovers alike. For the best hotel rates in Wrightsville Beach and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Wrightsville Beach

Some of the best places to stay in Wrightsville Beach are Downtown Wilmington, Long Beach and Shell Island. Wrightsville Beach offers a delightful mix of attractions for travelers. Downtown Wilmington features vibrant shops and dining, perfect for exploring local culture. Long Beach boasts serene stretches of sand, ideal for relaxation. Shell Island provides a unique, untouched environment for nature lovers. Accommodations vary from oceanfront suites to cozy guest rooms, with options like beach hotels and resorts throughout the area. For first-time visitors, Downtown Wilmington offers the best blend of activities and charm. Here are some of the best hotels in Wrightsville Beach that our travelers love:

1. Downtown WilmingtonOpens in a new window: Downtown Wilmington is a vibrant area perfect for travelers seeking a mix of romance, culture, and business. With attractions like the scenic Riverwalk, the Wilmington Convention Center, and the historical Battleship North Carolina, visitors can immerse themselves in local history and enjoy beautiful waterfront views. Hotels like Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window offer adventure activities, business amenities, and family-friendly services. For pet lovers, ARRIVE WilmingtonOpens in a new window provides welcoming accommodations for pets while ensuring comfort for all guests. If you're focused on business, Graystone InnOpens in a new window caters specifically to corporate travelers with excellent meeting facilities.
2. Long BeachOpens in a new window: Long Beach is a charming coastal destination ideal for beach enthusiasts. With its stunning beaches and nearby attractions like Caswell Beach and Holden Beach, it’s perfect for family getaways or relaxed vacations. Affordable stays include Captain's Cove MotelOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly motel, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport - Oak Island Area, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, which combines business amenities with a welcoming atmosphere for pets. Additionally, The Sunset InnOpens in a new window offers a cozy bed and breakfast experience complete with complimentary breakfast, making it a delightful choice for a relaxing beach retreat.
3. Shell IslandOpens in a new window: Shell Island is an excellent location for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Home to Wrightsville Beach and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, this area boasts a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. The resorts here, such as Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront SuitesOpens in a new window and Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, provide direct beach access along with various adventure sports options like sailing and snorkeling, making them ideal for active travelers. For families, B&B at Mallard BayOpens in a new window offers a charming bed and breakfast experience, complete with amenities tailored for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Things to do in Wrightsville Beach for first time

Wrightsville Beach offers a perfect three-day getaway with its stunning sandy shores, gentle waves, and tranquil coastal landscapes. Visitors can enjoy sunrise strolls, exhilarating surfing, and peaceful fishing. The surrounding islands and waterways invite boating and exploration, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Wrightsville Beach:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the serene Wrightsville Beach, where you can soak up the sun, relax on the sandy shores, and perhaps try your hand at some water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. After enjoying the beach, head over to the New Hanover County Arboretum, a beautiful spot featuring stunning gardens and walking paths that showcase a diverse range of plants. Conclude your day with a visit to Airlie Gardens, where you can stroll through lush landscapes filled with blooming flowers and historic structures, making it a perfect setting for some picturesque moments.
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to the Battleship North Carolina, an impressive World War II battleship that offers guided tours and exhibits detailing its storied past. Next, make your way to the Brooklyn Arts Center at St. Andrews, a vibrant venue that hosts local art exhibits and live performances, providing a taste of the region's artistic culture. Wrap up your day with a historical tour of the Burgwin-Wright House, where you can explore this colonial home and learn about the area’s rich history.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Carolina Beach, where the boardwalk and pier provide a fun atmosphere for a morning stroll or breakfast at a local café. Next, enjoy some time at Ogden Park, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic amidst nature, with plenty of green space to relax. Conclude your trip with a visit to Screen Gems Studios, where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at film production in the area, rounding out your Wrightsville Beach adventure with a touch of Hollywood magic.

5 tips to find a great Wrightsville Beach hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Wrightsville Beach for budget-conscious travelers is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're coming from abroad, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure more affordable rates. To truly enjoy the area's attractions, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Wrightsville Beach offers great value for money with its stunning beaches and scenic river views, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Wrightsville Beach, you could find great hotel discounts just before your trip. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you're more likely to discover competitive rates on nearby accommodations. Good availability often means you can snag a room at a hotel that offers the best value for your stay. Plus, enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, so you won't miss any chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Wrightsville Beach.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Wrightsville Beach is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the center, you can take advantage of various transportation options—such as a car, bicycle, shuttle, taxi, or trolley—or simply walk to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Wrightsville Beach and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Wrightsville Beach

Here are some must-try dishes in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, United States of America:

• Shrimp and Grits: This dish is a Southern classic that beautifully showcases the region's coastal flavors. Typically made with fresh shrimp sautéed in a savory sauce and served over creamy, buttery grits, it’s a hearty meal that reflects the area's fishing heritage. Enjoy it at local eateries where chefs often add a twist with ingredients like andouille sausage or local veggies, making each experience unique.
• Crab Cakes: Wrightsville Beach is famous for its blue crabs, and the crab cakes here are a must-try. Usually made with lump crab meat, these cakes are lightly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection. Pair them with a tangy remoulade and enjoy them in a casual beachfront restaurant, where the ocean breeze complements the flavors.
• Fish Tacos: Freshly caught fish wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with zesty slaw and house-made salsa, make fish tacos a popular choice. Many local establishments offer personalized toppings, so you can create your perfect taco experience while soaking in the vibrant beach atmosphere.

Best time to go to Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 48.6°F (9.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.0°F (27.2°C). September tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Wrightsville Beach are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.